Judith Leiber Joins with Breeders’ Cup to Create Custom Handbags for Horseracing Silks

Posted on: Nov 5

Well, I won't call these new minaudieres a completely unexpected look for Judith Leiber, the designer who has created bags in such strange shapes as parrots, dolphins, and peacocks. However, the teaming up of Leiber with Breeders' Cup, an organization that hosts championship horseracing events, is still just slightly random to me.

Leiber has joined with Breeders' Cup to give horseracing fanatics the chance to see the designs on their racing silks transformed into a crystal-studded handbag. Interesting collaboration aside, though, I'm actually really liking the direction that these new bags are taking. There's a lot of opportunity for some stunning looks.

Each Custom Silks minaudiere begins with an artist hand-painting the racing pattern onto the box followed by the intricate and meticulous addition of crystals over the design. The result, like just about any of Judith Leiber's bags, is quite stunning.

If you don't want a custom minaudiere, a hand-beaded minaudiere displaying the Breeders' Cup's signature logo is also available. The signature bag is available to purchase for $2,295, while the custom silks minaudieres range from $6,300 to $12,000. Now that's some serious dedication to the love of horseracing.

[Source: Elle]
[Image: Judith Leiber]